If you’re in the market for a safe, used small car for your newly licensed teenage driver that costs less than $10,000, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports has you covered.
The organization recently released a list of 45 used cars and SUVs that are typically available for less than $10,000 and have performed well on crash tests, as well as have highly rated headlights and automatic emergency braking systems that can detect pedestrians.
“We curate this annual list specifically for teens because driving holds extra risk for them,” IIHS Senior Research Scientist Rebecca Weast said in a statement. “That said, the suggestions are suitable for drivers of any age looking to balance affordability with crash protection and crash avoidance.”
“A teen’s first car is a major milestone,” Emily Thomas, associate director of auto safety at Consumer Reports, said in a statement. “Whether you’re buying them a vehicle or deciding which family car they should begin driving, these lists help parents make those choices with confidence, and without compromising on safety.”
Here’s a look at 11 of the top small car picks from the list.
1. Mini Countryman
Model Years Recommended: 2012-2024
Median Used Price: $4,600
MotorTrend said in a review: “A not-so-mini Mini seems like an oxymoron, no? Regardless, that’s the deal with the Countryman. The oddball was introduced for 2011 and we received a second-generation model for 2017. A redesigned Countryman with an EV powertrain is on the way, but for now, Mini is only making minor trim changes.”
2. Nissan Sentra
Model Years Recommended: 2015-2025
Median Used Price: $4,700
Car and Driver said in a review: “The Nissan Sentra is an affordable car that doesn’t look cheap. It has a handsome exterior and a classier interior than you might expect. Plus, its front seats are uncommonly comfortable for its class, and the spacious trunk is usefully sized. The Sentra also boasts impressive highway fuel economy.”
3. Chevrolet Sonic
Model Years Recommended: 2015-2019; built after February 2015
Median Used Price: $5,300
Edmunds said in a review: “Utility is part of the Sonic game plan. The sedan version features a big 14.9-cubic-foot trunk, while the hatchback features 19 cubic feet behind its folding rear seats. Both figures are more than what you typically get from this class of car.”
4. Kia Soul
Model Years Recommended: 2015-2025
Median Used Price: $5,300
Car and Driver said in a review: “While it may be the butt of jokes on social media, the lovable 2025 Kia Soul earns its keep by offering both a cheeky appearance and a practical cabin. Its boxy, upright design allows it to pack a spacious interior into a very compact package, making it an ideal urban runabout.”
5. Hyundai Elantra
Model Years Recommended: 2017-2025
Median Used Price: $6,100
U.S. News and World Report said in a review: “The 2025 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car that’s big on value but not excitement. It’s still fairly enjoyable to drive, and it’s stylish, roomy and very fuel-efficient, making it an attractive option in a competitive class.”
6. Mazda 3
Model Years Recommended: 2014-2018, built after October 2013
Median Used Price: $6,900
Edmunds said in a review: “The 2018 Mazda 3 isn’t the quickest car in its class, but it is the best to drive. The Mazda 3 doesn’t have the biggest cargo capacity in its class either, but it will certainly hold a whole lot of stuff. This is a clear case of the raw numbers not telling the entire story.”
7. Hyundai Elantra GT
Model Years Recommended: 2018-2020
Median Used Price: $8,000
Kelley Blue Book said in a review: “There’s no dispute, the 2020 Hyundai Elantra is really impressive. After a substantial makeover last year, Hyundai has made even more improvements this year. The bigger takeaway from these developments is that the compact-sedan scene is alive, well and thriving.”
8. Subaru Impreza
Model Years Recommended: 2014-2025
Median Used Price: $8,000
Car and Driver said in a review: “While it might be an unlikely candidate for any design awards, the Subaru Impreza is a practical all-wheel-drive hatchback with a generous slate of technology and safety features.”
9. Honda Civic
Model Years Recommended: 2014-2025
Median Used Price: $8,100
Edmunds said in a review: “The 2025 Honda Civic hybrid is available as a roomy sedan or practical hatchback and offers an enticing combination of sporty performance and good fuel efficiency. The Civic is one of the more expensive models in its class, but overall, we think you’re getting a solid return on your purchase.”
10. Kia Forte
Model Years Recommended: 2015-2024
Median Used Price: $8,900
MotorTrend said in a review: “As truly small, inexpensive sedans become increasingly rare, the Kia Forte stands out. This compact car has long been a staple in Kia’s lineup, with the current generation going on sale for 2019 and receiving a refresh for 2022.”
11. Subaru Crosstrek
Model Years Recommended: 2016-2025
Median Used Price: $9,000
U.S. News and World Report said in a review: “The 2024 Crosstrek is a practical and rugged vehicle with well-rounded packaging, and its redesign has improved many issues that plagued the outgoing model. It’s not without problems, but its interior comfort, spaciousness and overall performance overshadow most of its negatives.”
Read the full article here
